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Accusation of regime servants of air piracy in the "Protasevich case" in the USA: explaining the legal and political consequences A few days ago, US Attorney Dennis Williams handed over to US District Judge Paul Engelmeier a case prepared on the basis of an FBI investigation regarding the forced landing of a Ryanair plane in Minsk. The NAM lawyer Mikhail Kirilyuk spoke in a commentary to Belsat about the legal and political consequences of the accusation filed in the United States. We decided to partially retell the relevant material in the cards. For more information about the investigation and the conclusions of the Americans (and not only), we recommend that you refer to this article on the Belsat website or this video on the publication’s YouTube channel. Context In May 2021, the regime forced a Ryanair civilian plane with Roman Protasevich on board to land, we are sure that each of you knows this story well. Today we are talking about bringing those responsible for the incident to justice. Now More than one investigation is underway on the incident, but the United States has advanced the farthest! The US authorities directly accused Belaeronavigatsia CEO Leonid Chur and his deputy Oleg Kozyuchits, as well as two KGB officers, of conspiracy to commit air piracy. And what does it mean? According to the FBI investigators and the prosecutor, the defendants deliberately and by prior agreement lied about the bomb on board — to land the liner and detain Protasevich. And in doing so, they endangered more than a hundred lives. In addition, the accused organized the concealment of traces of the crime. Punishment for such an act: from 20 years in prison to life imprisonment. This accusation already has significant consequences: both legal and political. What is it like? The filed charge already gives the right to summon the accused to the US court, and in case of failure to appear, to put them on the wanted list. This in itself creates significant inconvenience and risks for the minions of the regime. And when receiving orders for new criminal acts, all accomplices of the regime will take into account that they can really be put on the international wanted list, and this is for life. Even after the change of power in Belarus, the prosecution and the wanted list in the United States will not be dropped. Implications for the regime In addition, the American example may well influence the acceleration of similar processes in the "Protasevich case" in other countries. The specialists and experts responsible for these cases can easily use the arguments from which they proceeded when bringing charges in the United States. Yes, even the recognition in the United States of a forced landing of an aircraft as an act of piracy does not automatically mean the recognition of the Lukashenko regime as a terrorist, as well as the dictator himself as a terrorist. But bringing the case in the United States to the indictment of Belarusian officials of this level is one of the most serious legal actions against the Lukashenka regime in its entire history.

Pavel Latushka appealed to the British Foreign Office on the need for a tough response to the complicity of the dictator in possible aggression During the meeting with the Deputy Ambassador of Great Britain, the head of the NAM Pavel Latushka and the foreign policy officer of the NAM Vladzimir Astapenka brought a principled position on the need for real steps to non-recognize Lukashenka and deprive him of sources of international funding, as well as to bring him to criminal responsibility for the genocide of the Belarusian people, torture, an act of air piracy, a hybrid aggression against the EU, and an attempt to wage a war of aggression. The promotion of issues of criminal liability of the regime was discussed with the participation of UK law firms, with which the NAM has established cooperation. Representatives of the UK have a clear understanding of the threats posed by the deployment of the Russian Armed Forces on the territory of Belarus, and the possible involvement of Belarusian military personnel to escalate the situation around Ukraine. Possible measures of financial sanctions against the regime for destabilizing the situation in the region were discussed. Representatives of the NAM noted the importance of synchronizing the actions of the EU, the US, Canada and the UK in order to increase pressure on the regime to stop mass repressions in Belarus. Pavel Latushka and Vladzimir Astapenka noted the importance of preventing Belarus from being excluded from the international agenda due to the growing tension between Russia, Ukraine and NATO. The Deputy Ambassador of Great Britain was also informed of the general position of the democratic forces on the non-recognition of Lukashenka’s right to call the so-called "referendum" on changing the constitution of the Republic of Belarus.

Appeal of the National Anti-Crisis Management on the threat to the independence of the Republic of Belarus The Lukashenka regime has lost control over the territory of Belarus. Before our eyes, the process of destruction of the state is taking place, the responsibility for which lies with the dictatorial regime of Lukashenka. His decision to deploy Russian troops in Belarus is illegal due to the loss of legitimacy from November 5, 2020 and the right to make any domestic and foreign policy decisions. In addition, the deployment of a group of troops of the Russian Federation creates a real threat to the territorial integrity and independence of the Republic of Belarus. The actions of the regime, which made it possible to increase the presence of the Russian military contingent in our country, created the preconditions for an act of aggression against Ukraine from the territory of Belarus. And this can cause catastrophic damage to relations between the Belarusian and Ukrainian peoples. The National Anti-Crisis Management declares the inadmissibility of military aggression from the territory of Belarus. And in this regard, we call on the democracies of the world: Declare non-recognition of Lukashenka, as France and the European Parliament and other states of the world have already done. Use all possible instruments of national and universal jurisdiction to bring Lukashenka to justice for the genocide of the Belarusian people, torture, an act of air piracy, hybrid aggression against the EU, as well as an attempt to wage an aggressive war. Expand sanctions, including against the military-industrial complex, by banning the supply of weapons and dual-use goods both from Belarus and to Belarus, and also provide for other effective instruments of accountability for the regime and related businesses. We also appeal to the command of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus. Troops of another state are illegally stationed on the territory of our Motherland. Allegedly defensive exercises carried out with the use of offensive weapons are creating unprecedented tension in the region. Any provocation can become a pretext for transferring the economic and social life of Belarus to a military footing. Refuse to carry out criminal orders, demand that the Russian military leave the territory of the Republic of Belarus. Remember that you took an oath of allegiance to the Belarusian people. Belarusians! In his fanatical desire to retain power, Lukashenka is ready to unleash, if not a war, then an armed conflict with neighboring states and create a hotbed of regional instability for an indefinite period. For the implementation of his crazy plan, Lukashenka will pay with the lives of our relatives and friends. The introduction of martial law and mobilization on the territory of Belarus will entail a total restriction of economic and civil rights: a curfew, irregular working hours, withdrawal of deposits, personal property, vehicles, housing. There will be an allegedly legal possibility of expropriation of enterprises and businesses. Demand that the command of the Armed Forces stop the exercises and withdraw troops from the borders with neighboring states, demand that your children return home alive. The National Anti-Crisis Management declares countering a possible armed conflict as its main current task, but only free and peaceful Belarusians, military personnel, mothers and fathers are able to prevent a catastrophe in Belarus. We Belarusians are against the war!

Press Secretary and Advisor for Foreign Policy and Analytics Artem Brukhan is a former official of the Brest Regional Executive Committee, Master of Historical Sciences and a graduate of the Warsaw University diplomacy course "New Personnel for New Belarus". In the civil service, he was responsible for the preservation of historical heritage and international cooperation in the field of culture. Author of a number of scientific articles on military history and historical memory. At the NAM, he will serve as a press secretary — replacing Maksim Parshuta, who will focus on other projects in the democratic movement — as well as an adviser on foreign policy and analysis. The NAM team thanks Maksim Parshuta for his contribution to the creation and implementation of the tasks of our team.

Statement by Pavel Latushka at the press conference of Democratic Forces on the announced "referendum" Warsaw-Vilnius, 21.01.2022 The National Anti-Crisis Management supports the common position of the democratic forces concerning the so-called "referendum" on changing the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus announced by the illegitimate authorities. At the same time, we consider it of fundamental importance to develop a strategy of actions not only in relation to the "referendum" itself, but a united strategy that will create an opportunity for a radical change of the situation in our country and ensure the fulfillment of the demands of the Belarusian society: the end of repressions, the release of political prisoners and the holding of new free elections. The National Anti-Crisis Management believes it is crucial to state the following: 1. Regarding the democratic forces' common position on the so-called "referendum": we support the common position to invalidate the "referendum" through citizens' action. 2. Regarding the assessment of the so-called "referendum" by international partners: to seek an official statement from international partners on the non-recognition of Lukashenka’s right to hold a "referendum". This will deprive the "referendum" of any political and legal significance and will nullify the regime’s plans to restore its lost legitimacy. To ask international partners to declare that if the repression of the Belarusans who do not support the imitation "referendum" continues, further consolidated sanctions of the European Union, the US, the UK and other democratic countries will be applied against the Lukashenka regime. We expect that international partners would support the demands of the Belarusian people that the only sustainable way out of the crisis in Belarus is the release of political prisoners and the holding of new early presidential elections. 3. Regarding the presence of the Russian troops on the territory of Belarus. The National Anti-Crisis Management considers the presence of the armed forces of the Russian Federation on the territory of the Republic of Belarus, which has been agreed by the illegitimate authorities in Belarus, a violation of international law. In the current situation the presence of the Russian troops poses a threat of military conflict with the neighbours of Belarus, as well as a threat of loss of sovereignty of Belarus. Based on the above, we believe that the united position of the democracies should be supplemented by the following strategy of our actions Using the "referendum" for a peaceful change of power in Belarus and meeting the demands of the Belarusian people: the release of political prisoners and the holding of new democratic presidential elections in Belarus. We should be ready to oppose the interference of foreign troops in the internal affairs of Belarus and the use of Belarus as a springboard for an attack on neighbouring countries. We appeal to our international partners: all norms of national and international law should be used to bring Lukashenka to criminal responsibility for crimes against humanity: torture, repression, murder, for hijacking the plane and hybrid war with the EU countries. We welcome the US decision to indict representatives of the regime for the hijacking of the plane. The NAM believes that the key political and legal issue for the international community is the non-recognition of Lukashenka as president of Belarus. We look forward to an appropriate decision at the level of national governments of democratic countries. This legal decision would allow Lukashenka’s actions to be considered as violating international law.

“From a transition period to sustainable democracy” on the #ExpertEnvironment platform Former employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus took part in the discussion: Vladzimir Astapenka, Pavel Latushka, Valery Tsepkalo, Valery Kavaleuski, Pavel Slyunkin and a special guest — ex-Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Albinas Janushka. Main topics discussed by the speakers: The optimal structure of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its role among the actors shaping foreign policy Foreign policy of Belarus in the transition period Relations with the EU Relations with Russia We also recommend that you read the materials from previous discussions: «Belarus in interaction with European subregional unions, groups and neighborhood programs «Integration processes within the Eurasian Union and the CIS. Development of a new policy towards Russia» «Prospects for building partnerships with the EU in the short and long term.

The ambassadors of Switzerland and Sweden were informed about the position of the democratic forces regarding the so-called "referendum" During the meetings with the ambassadors, Pavel Latushka outlined the strategic directions of the NAM team’s work to put pressure on the regime in order to fulfill the requirements of the Belarusian society: non-recognition of Lukashenka, recognition of him as a criminal and sanctions pressure. Particular attention was paid to the upcoming "referendum" and the need to develop a common position of democratic countries regarding the non-recognition of this plebiscite in the context of the complete suppression of fundamental rights and freedoms, mass repressions in Belarus and the impossibility of national and international monitoring of the will of the Belarusian people. Also at the meeting with the Ambassador of Switzerland, the issue of political prisoners in Belarus, including Swiss citizen Natalia Hershe, was discussed. The Ambassador of Sweden, in turn, confirmed that his country has always consistently supported the demands of the Belarusian society, the application of sanctions as a liability for violations of the rights and freedoms of Belarusians. Separately, Pavel Latushka outlined the problem of the threat to the independence of Belarus in the context of the escalation of the crisis between Russia and Ukraine. It was noted that the topic of Belarus should not fade into the background, despite the current international situation.

Democratic Forces drafted a joint appeal and sent letters with a common position of the EU, US, UK to the OSCE The Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the Coordination Council and the National Anti-Crisis Management called for: 1. Make official statements about the non-recognition of Lukashenka’s right to hold a referendum. This will deprive the referendum of any political and legal significance, and cross out the regime’s plans to restore the lost legitimacy. 2. State that if repressions continue against Belarusians who do not support the imitation "referendum", further consolidated sanctions will be applied against the Lukashenka regime. 3. Once again publicly support the demands of the Belarusian people that the only sustainable way out of the crisis in Belarus is the release of political prisoners and the holding of new early presidential elections under international supervision. The entire text of the letter is on Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s website. What Belarusians should do on Election Day: Come to the polling place Invalidate the ballot by putting crosses in front of the two answer options Take a photo of the ballot from both sides Drop your ballot in the ballot box Confirm the action on the "Voice" platform What to do now: Take the "referendum" poll on the Voice platform: • in Telegram • in Viber *if the poll does not start, enter the command /referendum Check out the detailed strategy on the campaign website.

In the constant thirst for unlimited power, Lukashenka has no place for thoughts about the development of the country. Only a dictator needs a "referendum" on changes to the Constitution. Belarus and Belarusians need changes that have nothing to do with the "referendum" and those changes to the Constitution that are designed to preserve the dictatorship in the country. Many of us were out of politics and believed that this was an unnecessary and even "harmful" area. We were convinced that there is nothing to get into this politics. Our non-participation in the political life of the country allowed Lukashenka to hold on to power. The potential of Belarusians is enough to create a system that works FOR the people. Details are in the video. If you also do not agree with the "referendum" that will be held in February — talk about it: Make a post talking about the upcoming "referendum" Tell in the text what you are against and for, invalidating the ballot Can you attach a photo with crossed arms In publications, use the hashtag #перечеркнибеззаконие We understand that not everyone is ready to publicly support the campaign against the illegal "referendum" in Belarus. But you can express your position anonymously. Send the text to the chatbot.

We help each other no matter what For 1.5 years now, the regime, which has turned the roller of repression into fifth gear, cannot do anything with our desire to win, nor with our will, nor with our main weapon — solidarity. He introduces more and more anti-people laws, trying to close the way for mutual assistance, but we are stronger, we are the majority and the truth is behind us. Many of this majority — us, the Belarusian people — now, unfortunately, need help. Fortunately, many are ready to help — both our common cause and specific people. Belarusians have demonstrated both of these many times already. Let us remind you where and how you can help those who have suffered and are suffering right now for our freedom and the freedom of our Motherland (if you are in Belarus, we recommend using a VPN connection ). Where we help: Digital Solidarity Who we help: democratic forces and projects for civil society How we help: financially Where we help: funds BySol, A country to live , dissidentby.com, *Emergency mutual aid" Who we help: victims of repression, including political prisoners, and their families How we help: financially Where we help: iNeedHelp Who we help: families of political prisoners and other victims of repression who have become those in need due to the actions of the regime How we help: financially, with products, or even with “stationery” Where we help: eHealth Who we help: honest doctors (at the same time receiving professional advice) How we help: financially Where we help: Dialogue with the people Who we help: if you yourself are a current or former civil servant — your colleagues How we help: in any necessary forms Where we help: Honest University Who we help: students and teachers of our universities How we help: in any necessary forms Where we help: Byculture.org Who we help: Figures (and bearers) of Belarusian culture How we help: financially, likes, distribution of works BONUS: Probono.by— here are collected initiatives that provide legal, human rights and other assistance. Anyone can become a volunteer! Politzek.me and Vkletochku.org — we write letters to political prisoners from Belarus and abroad. Belarusplatform.org — a convenient catalog of useful initiatives. Thank you!

The Ambassador of Austria in Warsaw and the NAM organize the Month of Belarusian Culture On January 19, 2022, a large-scale cultural project was presented at the Austrian House of Culture in Warsaw to hold the Month of Belarusian Culture from June 6 to July 7, 2022. The Austrian Embassy in Warsaw and the National Anti-Crisis Management are organizing the Month of Belarusian Culture in Poland to support the repressed Belarusians of creative professions who are in forced emigration. — For many Belarusians, a book, a performance on the Internet, a documentary film, an online concert — everything that an artist can say through his soul has become a way to survive in a dictatorship. And for us, a person in culture is important, those who create the cultural wealth of the people, so that they can soon return to Belarus and create for the development of the national culture of the country, — said the head of the NAM Pavel Latushka during the presentation. During the month, Belarusian concerts, exhibitions, film screenings, theatrical performances, literary evenings, lectures and master classes will be held in Warsaw and other cities of Poland. The Month of Belarusian Culture will be opened by the international conference "Belarusian Culture in Conditions of Repressions and Emigration: Challenges and Opportunities" with the participation of representatives of the ministries of culture of European countries, parliaments and embassies, international human rights organizations, as well as Belarusian cultural figures who suffered from repressions. The presented project of the Month of Culture received support from the present representatives of the embassies of the EU countries, the USA, Switzerland and other countries, who expressed their readiness to act as its partners. The NAM invites partners and other cultural initiatives to join the Month of Belarusian Culture.

“Foreign policy of New Belarus. From the transition period to sustainable democracy" on the #ExpertEnvironment platform The discussion will take place on January 19, from 19:00 to 20:00 (Minsk time) in the format of a Zoom conference. Register for the broadcast using the link. Former employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus and a special foreign guest will take part in the discussion: — Vladzimir Astapenka — Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus, has experience working in the central office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as in diplomatic missions in the Netherlands, Belgium, Cuba, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Chile. — Pavel Latushka — Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus, has experience working in the central office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as in diplomatic missions in Poland, France, Spain and Portugal. — Valery Tsepkalo — Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus, has experience working in the central office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as in diplomatic missions in the USA, Mexico and Finland. — Valery Kavaleuski — Advisor, has experience working in the central office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as in the diplomatic mission in the United States. — Pavel Slyunkin is the first secretary, has experience working in the central office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as in the diplomatic mission in Lithuania. — Albinas Januska is the former Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, ex-adviser to President Adamkus and Prime Minister Kirkilas. Signatory of the Act on the Restoration of the Independent State of Lithuania. Want to ask the experts a question? You can write them in the comments to this post or when registering. Due to time restrictions during the discussion, some questions of similar meaning may be combined, some of which we will answer in the reporting materials on the results of the discussion.